IS 
that the former range of the animals extended nearly, if 
not cmite, to the Atlantic coast. These exceptions are per- 
haps the most fortunate which could occur, as, aside from 
their being the finest of our native animals, they have hoth 
so nearly reached extinction that a few more years of neg- 
lect of proper legislative protection will leave few of either 
species outside the limits of zoological gardens and private 
parks. Our Garden contains fine and increasing herds of 
each. 
An attempt was made during the past summer to procure 
a specimen of Rocky Mountain goat, the inaccessible nature 
of whose haunts has made their capture so difficult that no 
living specimen has ever been exhibited to the public, but 
the attempt was not successful. 
Probably the greatest want of the Garden to-day is a 
collection of reptiles, as complete and as well displayed as 
so interesting a branch of zoology should merit. The few 
specimens which have been procured of late years have been 
placed in the old aviary, whichj without large alteration, can 
supply none of the requisites of proper care, and until in- 
creased receipts at the Garden, or the liberality of private 
donation can supply the few thousand dollars necessary for 
that purpose, it has not been felt worth while to collect to- 
gether animals which, after procuring, it would not be pos- 
sible to keep alive. There is hardly a class of animals so 
interesting to visitors as these, and the day when the proper 
arrangements can be made for a reptile house worthy of the 
Garden, will be eagerly welcomed. 
The reduced receipts of the year made necessary an even 
more stringent economy than that hitherto practiced, and 
by the intelligent co-operation of all subordinate employes, 
the expenses were reduced some three thousand dollars. It 
is proper to say, however, that some of the means employed 
cannot be permanently continued and at the same time the 
Garden be kept in the attractive condition which has always 
been aimed at. 
Respectfully, 
ARTHUR ERWIN BROWN. 
Zoological Garden, March 1st, 1886. Genl. Supt. 
